Southern Tuscany Walking and Wine · Today it stands as a classic Italian city, with its...
Transcript of Southern Tuscany Walking and Wine · Today it stands as a classic Italian city, with its...
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Why book this trip?Why book this trip?
A walking holiday that takes in the splendours of southern Tuscany, an iconic landscape of a rolling hills,
avenues of cypress trees and medieval hilltop towns. Ramble through the vineyards of Chianti, along
ancient pilgrimage trails and explore the captivating cities of Siena and Florence.
Wine tastings - Sample some of Italy's finest wines from Chianti to Brunello
Hilltop towns - Discover San Gimignano, Pienza, Montepulciano and Montalcino
Local cuisine - Enjoy the fresh produce and delicious flavours of Tuscany
Southern Tuscany Walking andSouthern Tuscany Walking andWineWineITALY ITALY - TRIP CODE - TRIP CODE LTYLTY
WALKING AND TREKKING
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ItineraryItinerary
Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select the itinerary that you wish to explore.
Our trip begins at Pisa Galileo Galilei International Airport (PSA) at 5.15 pm. If you would like to join the
complimentary airport transfer today, the latest your flight can arrive is 4.45 pm. We will travel together
as a group to our guesthouse villa in Castellina in Chianti, a country town with Etruscan and Roman
origins. Castellina lies at an altitude of around 580m in the heart of the Chianti Hills, an area famous for
its wine.
If your flight arrives earlier in the day and you wish to venture into Pisa you can leave your luggage at the
Information Desk in the Arrivals Area of the terminal. The baggage deposit is open every day between
9am and 7pm and the daily rate for each bag is €7 Euros. The easiset way to reach the city is by the high
speed People Mover service which departs from just outside the airport terminal every 5 to 8 minutes
and take just a few minutes to reach Pisa Centrale Railway Station. From here it's a 30 minute stroll to
Pisa's most famous monument, the Leaning Tower. A taxi should cost no more than €20 Euros.
4
A C C O M M O D AT I O N :
Villa Cristina (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Guesthouse
SI N G L E R O O M AVA I L A B L E
I N C L U D E DM E A L S
Breakfast: 7Lunch: 2
T R I P STA F F
Explore TourLeader / Trek
Guide
T R A N SPO R T
MinibusTrain
A C C O M M O D AT I O N
3 nightscomfortableguesthouse
4 nightscomfortable hotel
W A L KI N GG R A D E :
Easy ToModerate
G R O U P SI ZE :
10 - 16
DAY 1DAY 1 - Join trip Pisa airport; drive to Castellina in Chianti - Join trip Pisa airport; drive to Castellina in Chianti
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M E A L S PR O V I D E D : N O N E
After breakfast we drive close to the town of Volpaia, near to Radda in Chianti. Our walk heads out from
the small chapel of Santa Maria Novella and slowly climbs through vineyards and along marked trails up
into the hills of Chianti to the picture perfect village of Volpaia. We then follow local village paths and
old drovers' roads, cutting through the vineyards and fields of the villa of Castelvecchi. Finally, we
descend back to Santa Maria Novella for a well-earned rest in the olive groves of the church and our
picnic lunch. A short bus ride takes us to Radda for some time to explore and look around and perhaps
have a gelato. Once back in Castellina there's the option to head out to a wine tour and tasting at the
Rocca della Macie wine estate where the famous Chianti Classico is produced.
Today's seven kilometre walk is expected to take around four hours with a total ascent and descent of
150 metres.
A C C O M M O D AT I O N :
Villa Cristina (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Guesthouse
SI N G L E R O O M AVA I L A B L E
M E A L S PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST & L U N C H
This morning we drive towards San Gimignano before setting off on foot along part of the Via Francigena
(an ancient pilgrimage route running all the way from Canterbury to Rome) along a wide gravel track past
vineyards and rural houses. The thirteen medieval towers of San Gimignano are often in sight in the near
distance. San Gimignano is a beautifully preserved example of a classic Tuscan medieval town. It
prospered during the 12th and 13th centuries, until a combination of local aristocratic rivalry and the
arrival of the Black death devastated trade. We will have some free time to explore the town, have a
relaxing lunch in one of many cafes and perhaps walk up to the Torre Grossa, or visit the Duomo.
After lunch we plan to visit the Sovestro winery for a tasting of some of the local San Gimignano white
wine. We then continue to Monteriggioni, a beautifully preserved fortified hill-top village, where we can
walk around the walls before driving back to Castellina later this afternoon.
Today's gently undulating ten kilometre walk is expected to take around three-and-a-half hours.
DAY 2DAY 2 - Walk in the heart of Chianti country - Walk in the heart of Chianti country
DAY 3DAY 3 - Walk to San Gimignano; wine tasting - Walk to San Gimignano; wine tasting
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A C C O M M O D AT I O N :
Villa Cristina (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Guesthouse
SI N G L E R O O M AVA I L A B L E
M E A L S PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST
Our final destination today is Pienza in southern Tuscany, but we will stop for most of the day in the
fabulous medieval city of Siena where our time is free to explore the market and other sights. With its
magnificent Gothic architecture, Siena was once a rival to Florence in power and trade, the city
controlled the trade routes between France and Rome, as well as the southern Tuscan wool industry.
Today it stands as a classic Italian city, with its magnificent central square, Il Campo, and the awe
inspiring grandeur of the Duomo overlooking the Via di Citta. The city centre is traffic-free, making it
ideal to wander around on foot, soaking up the many intriguing sights. The focal point is the Piazza del
Campo, a semi-circular area surrounded by ancient buildings, and overlooked by a 100 metre bell tower,
the Torre del Mangia. The Piazza is also used for a horse race twice a year - the famous Palio, when
horses and their riders hurtle dangerously around the square to the delight of the crowds.
Pienza, our base for the next three nights, is a classic hill-top town and jewel of Renaissance architecture
that UNESCO declared a World Heritage Site in 1996.
A C C O M M O D AT I O N :
Relais II Chiostro di Pienza Hotel (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
SI N G L E R O O M AVA I L A B L E
M E A L S PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST
DAY 4DAY 4 - Visit medieval Siena; drive to Pienza in southern Tuscany - Visit medieval Siena; drive to Pienza in southern Tuscany
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Our walk today heads downhill from Pienza on typical 'strade bianche', the white gravel roads of
Tuscany. We head towards the village of Montichiello, a lovely medieval walled village where we will
have a well earned break and admire one of the most famous cypress tree avenues in the whole of
Tuscany (and the one on most of the postcards!) Retracing our steps a little way downhill, we pick up our
trail heading past vineyards, enjoying some enchanting views across the surrounding countryside as we
make our way towards the temple of San Biagio on the hillside below the town of Montepulciano.
Founded by Antonio Sangallo the Elder in the 16th century, this glorious church was, at the time, the
largest outside of Rome and is considered by many to be one of the finest Renaissance buildings in Italy.
Continuing up the hill into the town, we head via the Piazza Grande, Montepulciano's flamboyant main
square. Perched on a 605 m high limestone ridge and encircled by Renaissance-era walls and
fortifications, Montepulciano is a major producer of food and drink; renowned for its pork, cheese, 'pici'
pasta, lentils, and honey and not least its wine. Connoisseurs consider its Vino Nobile among Italy's best.
Before heading back to Pienza by local bus, we will have time to explore some of the underground cellars
of Montepulciano with the option of enjoying a wine tasting.
Today's 12 kilometre walk is expected to take around four-and-a-half hours with a total ascent of 350
metres.
A C C O M M O D AT I O N :
Relais II Chiostro di Pienza Hotel (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
SI N G L E R O O M AVA I L A B L E
M E A L S PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST
Today we drive from Pienza to San Quirico along a panoramic road where some of the scenes from the
film 'Gladiator' were filmed. San Quirico D'Orcia is a beautiful town that lies along the Via Francigena
pilgrimage route and we will have some time here, before we set out on our walk. Descending from the
town we cross the Asso river and follow undulating trails with wide open views of the classic Val
D'Orcia. Vineyards surround us and the towers of Siena are visible on the Horizon. Our final destination
is the hill-top town of Montalcino located at just over 500m. We have some free time to explore and the
chance to enjoy a wine tasting of the famous Brunello di Montalcino wine.
Today's 12 kilometre walk is expected to take around five hours with a total ascent of 450 metres.
DAY 5DAY 5 - Walk to Montepulciano via Montichiello - Walk to Montepulciano via Montichiello
DAY 6DAY 6 - Hike in the Val D'Orcia to hill-top Montalcino - Hike in the Val D'Orcia to hill-top Montalcino
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A C C O M M O D AT I O N :
Relais II Chiostro di Pienza Hotel (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
SI N G L E R O O M AVA I L A B L E
M E A L S PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST & L U N C H
Leaving the rolling hills of southern Tuscany behind we head for our final destination of the holiday, the
fabulous city of Florence. The spiritual home of the Renaissance, Florence is considered by many to be
one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. On arrival our leader will take us out on an orientation walk with
the rest of the day left free to explore further. Highlights include the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest and most
famous bridge in Florence and the only one that was not demolished during the German retreat of 1944
and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore with its giant dome that dominates the city skyline. Early
evening is the perfect time to walk up to the Piazzale Michaelangelo for a great view over the city.
A C C O M M O D AT I O N :
Classic Hotel Florence (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
SI N G L E R O O M AVA I L A B L E
M E A L S PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST
The trip ends after breakfast this morning at our hotel in Florence.
There are no actvities planned for today and you are free to depart at any time. If you are departing later
in the day luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel.
If you would like to receive a complimentary airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from either Pisa
Galileo Galilei International Airport (PSA) or Florence Peretola Airport (FLR). If departing from Pisa
DAY 7DAY 7 - Drive to Florence; orientation walk - Drive to Florence; orientation walk
DAY 8DAY 8 - Trip ends in Florence - Trip ends in Florence
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Airport your trip leader will arrange the transfer , providing you with a ticket for the public shuttle bus
service direct from Florence Centrale Railway Station to Pisa Airport. A taxi transfer from our hotel to
the shuttle bus departure point will also be provided for you. The total journey time is around 70
minutes. If you are departing from Florence Airport you will be transferred from our hotel to the airport
by taxi, a journey of around 30 minutes.
M E A L S PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST
Trip informationTrip information
Italy
Climate
April/May and October/November are pleasantly warm. June/September are the hottest months.
Showers are common in Autumn.
Time difference to GMT
+8 (PT)
Plugs
2 Pin Round
Religion
Roman Catholic
Language
Italian
Optional activities
The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated
costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may
depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were
originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Please note: These activities
are booked and paid for direct with the supplier and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract.
Montalcino - Wine tasting €10.
Clothing
Take light and comfortable clothing that can be layered according to the temperature. July and August
are the hottest months whilst early and late in the season go prepared with clothing to suit drops in
temperature and possible showers. Light rainwear may be needed at any time of year, and a warm
fleece/jacket is recommended for cooler evenings and nights.
Footwear
Country informationCountry information
Budgeting and packingBudgeting and packing
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We recommend you bring lightweight walking boots, make sure that your boots are worn-in and
comfortable before the start of the trip. Also trainers or sandals for relaxing and general wear. We
suggest that on international flights you either carry your walking boots in your hand luggage or wear
them - should your luggage be lost or delayed, your own boots are the one thing that will be
irreplaceable.
Luggage
20kg
Luggage: On tour
One main piece of baggage and daypack.
Equipment
Bring walking poles if you use them, a water bottle, insect repellent, sunglasses and sunscreen. A torch is
useful in case of powercuts and navigating dimly lits streets at night.
Tipping
Explore leader
Tipping isn't compulsory, and we work hard to ensure that our leaders all receive a fair wage. You may
however, want to recognise a leader that has done a great job or really added to your trip by giving them
a tip. We're often asked about the recommended amount. It is a tricky one, and down to personal
preference, but we would recommend £15 to £20 per person per week as a guideline.
Italy
Food and drink
The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses
eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track
may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may
charge more.
Lunch price
£10.00 - 15.00
Dinner price
£20.00 - 25.00
Beer price
£2.00 - 4.00
Water price
£1.00 - 2.00
Foreign Exchange
Local currency
Euro.
Recommended Currency For Exchange
GBP.
Where To Exchange
We recommend that you change any currency into Euros prior to arrival. Bureau de Change are
generally only found in major cities and large airports.
ATM Availability
Major towns.
Credit Card Acceptance
Larger hotels and restaurants.
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Travellers Cheques
Only in major towns. Please note, the exchange rate for cash and Travelers Checks is poor.
Transport Information
Minibus, Train
Government Travel Safety Advice
We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information
and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and
customs. For UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office advice click here.
For more information from Explore about travel advice, click here
Under 18 immigration guidance
Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under
18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if
this applies to your party.
Price Guarantee
Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the
circumstances. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing
information.Booking Conditions
Visa and Passport Information
Italy: Visas are not required by UK, E.U Nationals, Australian, New Zealand, US and Canadian citizens.
Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office.
If you do require assistance in obtaining a visa then you may be able to apply through Explore's
recommended visa service in the UK, Travcour. See www.travcour.com to download the relevant visa
application for your trip, if applicable (UK citizens only), along with details of how to apply for your visa
through Travcour. The Team at Travcour will be happy to answer specific questions relating to visa
applications, please call them directly on 0208 5431846.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity
for your chosen destination.
Booking conditions
Transport, Accommodation & MealsTransport, Accommodation & Meals
Essential InformationEssential Information
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Before booking your Explore trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and
Booking Conditions.
Transfers
Find out more about Trip Transfer Terms and Conditions before you book.
Booking a land only package with Explore
Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you
have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements.
Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information.
You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.
Joining Tour Abroad
Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will now receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive
and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged
from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the
ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have
selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the
joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both.
The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at
the designated airport or train station.
Free transfers are not available for Self-Guided, Polar, Tailormade or Tours for Churches customers.
If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the
joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at
an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking.
For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here
Insurance
It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your
responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full
terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you
intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully
cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your
policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the
entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper
altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will
exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an
additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full
amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and
repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the
United Kingdom.
Read more information about what travel insurance is required.
Flight information
Explore offers a wide range of flexible flying options to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read
more about them here.
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Flight Information
You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive
package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.
Booking a flight inclusive package with Explore
We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK
allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our
dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.
On our website we display a UK flight inclusive package guide price which is generally based on a London
departure. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend
booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.
Maximum altitude (m)
600
Italy
Vaccinations
Nothing required. Tetanus recommended. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or
doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding
vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NaTHNaC link at Explore Travel
Health and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change
and should be confirmed by you before traveling.
Walking and Trekking informationWalking and Trekking information
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Walking grade
Easy to moderate
Trek details
Walks on 4 days for between 3.5 to 5 hours.You will be walking on a mix of strade bianche,
compacted gravel roads typical of Tuscany, as well as farm trails and mule tracks on undulating
hilly terrain.
Max walking altitude (m)
600
Additional InformationAdditional Information
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